Five Signs Your Team Isn’t Aligned (And What to Do About It)

Most leaders assume their teams are aligned—until a missed deadline, a frustrated email, or an awkward silence in a meeting proves otherwise.

And here’s the thing: misalignment isn’t always loud.

Most of the time, it’s silent. Slow. Like a slow leak in a tire that eventually leaves you stranded on the side of the road.

The best leaders don’t wait for misalignment to become a problem. They tackle it proactively—and that takes bravery.

So how do you know when it’s time for a course correction?

Here are five red flags to watch for:

🚩 1. People aren’t making decisions on their own.

If your team constantly seeks approval for small decisions, it’s a sign they aren’t clear on priorities—or they don’t feel safe taking action.

🚩 2. Meetings feel like a repeat of the last one.

If you’re discussing the same challenges over and over, but nothing is changing, it’s not a ‘strategy problem.’ It’s a communication problem.

🚩 3. Accountability is inconsistent.

Some team members meet expectations, others don’t—but no one is addressing the gap. Misalignment thrives in silence.

🚩 4. Energy is low, even when work is getting done.

A team can be productive but disengaged. If they’re executing but not innovating, contributing, or taking ownership, they might not see how their work connects to the bigger picture.

🚩 5. You’re noticing ‘whisper culture.’

If people are having side conversations about issues—but not bringing them to leadership—it’s a clear sign that your team doesn’t feel safe enough to be honest.

So, what’s the solution? Start with the “How We Work” conversation, from my Five Tough Talks framework.

Here’s how to do it:

1️⃣ Ask your team: “What do you need to do your best work?”

Let them share—without interruption. You might be surprised by what they say.

2️⃣ Clarify expectations: Roles, decision-making authority, and non-negotiables should never be a guessing game.

3️⃣ Make commitments visible: Document your agreements. When people see their own words reflected back, accountability skyrockets.

If your team needs deep realignment and you're feeling stuck on where to start, the Five Tough Talks Online Certification Program can help.

The online video course gives you a step-by-step guide, mindset shifts, conversation starters, key questions, and more to get your team aligned, on the same page, working toward a common goal, and performing at the highest level.

And that’s just Module 1.

If you're ready to turn misalignment into momentum, let's discuss enrolling your team into the Five Tough Talks Online Certification Program.

Book a meeting with my team to discuss individual or team enrollment⤵️

https://schedule.nicolembianchi.com/#/4504171000003332076

Together, we can take your team from misaligned, defeated, and frustrated to high performing and engaged with confidence and ease.